Rider Waite Card Meaning - Justice

XI – Justice - Justice and Balance

Waite engages the familiar personification of justice as a woman who balances on one hand, the sword of swift retribution and on the other, the scales of equity. The only difference between this design and the classical motif is that Lady Justina is not blindfolded. She has eyes to see what truth is and what is just.

Justice shows a favorable outcome in some manner of contention, perhaps a legal issue, and justice has been served. It can also indicate equilibrium and balanced conditions, good judgment, and fair-mindedness.

Reversed, the Justice card means that the swift sword of retribution has been raised. Problems arise from spiteful vindictiveness and harsh acts of vengeance. Justice, in this sense, means revenge. A reevaluation of the situation is necessary before action is taken.